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I've been using a water blaster for about 8-9 months now. I like it better then the mag I replaced it for. It runs on less watts therefor less heat. I've used mag pumps for years and know there good pump thought.
I'm using the ATO.com with an aqua-lifter pump. Works great.
http://www.autotopoff.com/products/DS1/index.htm
http://www.marinedepot.com/Tom_Aquatics_Aqua_Lifter_Dosing_Pump_Accessories_for_Aquarium_Overflow_Boxes-Tom_Aquatics-OE1137-FIOFOA-vi.html
You shouldn't need the valve when you turn the pump off. If you do you don't have your return in the tank high enough. I wouldn't put the valve behind the tank if you won't be able to grab it with both hands. A valve that hasn't been turned for a while can need a lot of force to turn. I'd put it...